OSCE PA adopts resolution on Georgia, condemns 'democratic backsliding'

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has adopted the Porto Declaration and Resolutions, including a specific resolution titled "Supporting Democracy and OSCE Values in Georgia." The document expresses deep concern over the erosion of democratic standards and the political direction of the Georgian government under the leadership of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

In the resolution, the Assembly voices serious alarm over the conduct and aftermath of the 26 October 2024 parliamentary elections, citing widespread electoral irregularities, misuse of administrative resources, and violations of democratic procedures. The resolution echoes findings from the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, which documented numerous procedural issues during the vote.

Among the key concerns raised:

- Democratic backsliding, intensifying political polarization, and rising restrictions on fundamental freedoms, including peaceful assembly and media independence.

- Arbitrary arrests, politically motivated prosecutions, and violence against protesters, opposition figures, and journalists following the elections.

- Adoption of Russian-style legislation, including laws on “foreign agents,” media regulation, and grants, which the resolution says are used to consolidate power and suppress dissent.

- Growing anti-EU rhetoric and closer ties with Russia and China, which the Assembly finds inconsistent with Georgia’s declared European aspirations.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly strongly condemned the use of force against peaceful demonstrators, affirmed support for the release of political prisoners, and urged the repeal of the “foreign agents” law.

The resolution also reaffirms:

- Unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejecting any recognition of the so-called elections held in occupied Abkhazia on 2 March 2025.

- Call for Russia to withdraw its forces from Georgian territory, reverse its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states, and fully implement the 2008 EU-mediated ceasefire agreement.

- A renewed appeal to Georgian authorities to engage in national dialogue, uphold civil liberties, and return to the path of European integration.

The resolution highlights that the will of the Georgian people remains firmly pro-European, and it urges the government to respect that choice through transparent, democratic governance.